Ah, Soviet socio-political satire, ah Russian dystopia. Could anything be greater than a combination of both, in movie format? Unlikely, says Kin Dza-Dza! – a minimal and clever sci-fi masterpiece from the ’80s. Written and directed by revered director Georgi Daneliya, this film from my early years was only allowed to see the light of day thanks to its creator’s reputation. The plot revolves around the story of two oddballs who accidentally teleport to the mysterious planet Pluk in the Kin Dza-Dza galaxy. Fiddler and Uncle Vova unwittingly activate a device belonging to a hobo who claims to be an alien, and the fun begins.

Pluk’s inhabitants are a strange bunch; far advanced in technology, though scarcely evolved socially, with command of only a 2-word vocabulary. They look exactly like humans, have the power of telepathy, yet use a tool that divides all being into two groups – superior and inferior. Uncle Vova and Fiddler have many interesting encounters in store, and much to overcome if they’re ever to make it home.

Kin Dza-Dza! is rich with [not entirely subtle] critique of Communism and the poignant bitter humor I expect from Soviet Era films along with crunchy puns, rust, dust, and a Mad Maxy landscape throughout. Steampunk costumes and gadgets make appearances and are actually utilized in a way that makes sense! It’s a shame this Russian cult favorite isn’t better known – I deem it worthy of the pickiest sci-fi fans, provided they can get past the complete lack of any special effects.

I really really want to see this but I’m having a little dilemma. Is this the sort of film that should be treated as spectacle? I mean, should I wait til I can see it in a theatre or on my telly…or does google video get the job done. Thinking about watching an entire film on modern media summons my Lynch conscience:

Yeah Ben, Alphaville is great! I guess in that same vein I would add Tarkovsky “Stalker” and “Solaris” as well. “Primer” too.

Skerror: The google video is better than average quality for a webstream, but the film is definitely something that I want to re-watch in a less compromised manner and format. The writing shines through regardless though.

Historical significance with personal value due to my being half Ukrainian Jew?
Making fun of Communism?
The eternal Russian expectation that it will of course go wrong, we only need wonder how?
Story and character instead of effects?

Hey! I’m Ukrainian-American, but never saw this movie until 2009. Also kinda mad at my mom for not showing it to me sooner, but the WAY I saw it makes up for that. The first time I saw this gem was the first time I went to Burning Man festival! Talk about full-immersion, I felt I was in the movie. Seriously recommend watching this movie in the middle of the desert with a crazy bunch of people, lol. That, and the Rocky Horror Picture Show. :D
*thumbs and toes up for crazy movie!*

An absolutely classic. This film has served as an inspiration to my own independent film which has a similar steampunk feel. Thank you Professor Mamonova, who showed me this film in my Russian language class.